logiciel
/lɔ.ʒi.sjɛl/masculine
The English word 'software' is translated into French as logiciel. Wiktionary also lists programmerie.
Meaning: encoded computer instructions (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| logiciel | /lɔ.ʒi.sjɛl/ | masculine |
| programmerie | feminine |
logiciel refers to encoded computer instructions. Unlike the English word 'software', which is uncountable, logiciel is a countable noun in French.
Which one should you use?
logiciel is used for the general concept of software or a specific program. In contrast, the term matériel is used to refer to computer hardware.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Switzerland, the term 'software' is used interchangeably with logiciel.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express 'software products' or multiple pieces of software, add an 's' to form the plural logiciels.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /lɔ.ʒi.sjɛl/ and contains 3 syllables.
Did you know?
- The word logiciel is a deliberate linguistic creation designed by the French language to resist English influence. It was engineered to provide a native-sounding equivalent to the English term 'software'.
- In France, using the English word 'software' in a professional context can sometimes be perceived as an attempt to sound more 'international' or corporate.
- The root of logiciel is the word logique, meaning 'logic', which highlights the intellectual nature of the code compared to the physical nature of hardware.
Examples in context
- Ils vendent du logiciel.They deal in software products.This sentence shows how to use logiciel when discussing software products.Tatoeba #980788 by sacredceltic, translation #305873 by CK
- Ce logiciel est gratuit.This software is free of charge.This sentence demonstrates how to describe logiciel as being free of charge.Tatoeba #8685058 by Julien_PDC, translation #11294662 by see
- C'est un logiciel libre.It's open source software.This sentence illustrates the use of logiciel when referring to open source software.Tatoeba #12199276 by lbdx, translation #6011162 by mailohilohi
- Je travaille dans le domaine des logiciels.I work in the software industry.
- Notre entreprise développe des logiciels innovants.Our company develops innovative software.
- Le logiciel que j'utilise est très efficace.The software I use is very efficient.
- J'utilise un progiciel pour gérer mes finances.I use a software program to manage my finances.
- As-tu téléchargé la nouvelle appli de photo ?Have you downloaded the new photo app?
- Tu peux m'envoyer le soft par e-mail ?Can you send me the software via email?
- 71 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Léa and Lucas are at a computer in an office.
- LéaTu as installé le nouveau logiciel ?Did you install the new software?
- LucasOui, le logiciel fonctionne très bien.Yes, the software works very well.
- LéaEst-ce qu'il est facile à utiliser ?Is it easy to use?
- LucasOui, je trouve ce logiciel très intuitif.Yes, I find this software very intuitive.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “software” translations and entries logiciel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
